Jewel Tones and Diamonds: Rolex Updates the Day-Date 36

One of the many updates to the Rolex catalog to come out of Watches and Wonders this year is a trio of Day-Date 36 models with decorative stone dials. Rolex has historically taken some creative freedom with its Day-Date models, and the latest collection updates are no different. Each example makes use of a unique decorative stone dial, highlighting its natural qualities within a precious metal case accented with diamond details. 

The Day-Date is somewhat of an archetypal silhouette for Rolex, maintaining that identity with the newest 36mm executions. For material, the brand is introducing three separate selections, one in 18kt Everose gold, the second in 18kt yellow gold, and the final example in 18kt white gold. Creating consistency between the models is a sparkling bezel set with 52 brilliant-cut diamonds. Securing the case is the iconic three-piece link President bracelet with a concealed Crownclasp that blends aesthetics and function. 

Framed by the Everose gold, yellow gold, or white gold case is the choice of either a green aventurine, carnelian, and turquoise dial, respectively. Each stone has unique compositional elements that vary from one model to the next, a feature that is celebrated in the design rather than camouflaged. For the green aventurine, the surface is finely crystallized, the warm orange carnelian has varying lines throughout it, and the turquoise has a naturally veiny texture. Echoing the glamorous bezel motif, the hour markers and Roman numeral VI and IX indices are encrusted with diamonds for all three models. The result is an intriguing and unexpected juxtaposition between the decorative stones, diamond accents, and the precious metal case, all emphasizing the dynamism of Rolex design. Completing the Day-Date design is a date window at 3 o’clock and an aperture displaying the day at 12 o’clock. 

Providing power to the trio is the manufacture caliber 3255. It is a self-winding movement capable of indicating the hour, minute, seconds, day, and date. The day and date appear instantaneously with an unrestricted rapid-setting feature. For precise time setting, the mechanism also offers a stop-seconds function. The movement offers a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, generated by a perpetual rotor that allows for bidirectional self-winding. 

Pricing for the for each of the new Rolex Day-Date 36 models is available upon request. 

To learn more, visit Rolex here.